First Impressions of Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets
In the realm of self-defense ammunition, innovation is key, and the Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets promise a significant departure from traditional hollow points. These bullets, manufactured by Lehigh Defense, boast a unique Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) design intended to maximize tissue damage and ensure deep penetration. The all-copper construction, coupled with a radical nose geometry, aims to create a wound cavity far exceeding what conventional bullets can achieve.
My interest in these bullets stemmed from a need for reliable and effective self-defense rounds that could perform consistently even after penetrating barriers. I was looking for a projectile that could maintain its integrity and deliver devastating terminal performance in a .45 ACP platform, without relying on traditional hollow point expansion.
Upon receiving the bullets, my initial impression was one of intrigue. The solid copper construction exudes quality, and the distinctive nose profile immediately sets them apart from conventional rounds. Handling them, they felt well-made, precisely machined, and consistent in weight and dimensions. Compared to standard 230-grain FMJ rounds or even typical 200-grain hollow points, the Lehigh Defense bullets present a different approach to terminal ballistics. While traditional hollow points rely on expansion, these FTM bullets promise enhanced fluid transfer and tissue disruption through their unique design. I chose these over other options hoping for superior barrier penetration coupled with substantial wound cavity creation.
My initial reaction was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. The technology is intriguing, but the proof is always in the performance, and I was eager to see how they would perform in real-world testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets took place at a controlled shooting range. The range offered a safe environment with ballistic gel and various barrier materials to assess the rounds’ performance. I tested them in my customized 1911, known for its reliability.
The performance was immediately impressive. The bullets exhibited excellent accuracy and consistent recoil. There were no feeding issues, and the rounds cycled flawlessly. After observing the rounds fired into the ballistic gel with and without barriers like denim and sheet rock, there was visibly significant wound channels.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of testing, the Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense bullets have consistently delivered reliable performance. I fired approximately 500 rounds in different range sessions and have experienced no malfunctions. The rounds grouped tightly and maintained consistent velocity.
Durability has been excellent, with no signs of deformation or fragmentation. Maintenance is straightforward, as the solid copper construction minimizes fouling. Compared to my previous experiences with standard FMJ and hollow point rounds, the Lehigh Defense bullets offer a distinct advantage in penetration and wound channel characteristics, particularly when faced with barriers. They consistently outperformed traditional hollow points in scenarios where penetration through clothing or other materials was required before reaching the target.
Breaking Down the Features of Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets
Specifications
The Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets offer a unique combination of features. The .452 diameter ensures compatibility with standard .45 ACP firearms. The 220-grain weight provides a balance between recoil and terminal performance.
The Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) design is the key innovation, utilizing radial flutes to maximize hydraulic energy transfer. The solid copper construction ensures deep penetration and eliminates the risk of lead contamination. The ballistic coefficient of 0.17 contributes to a relatively flat trajectory. The sectional density of 0.154 indicates good penetration potential.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the bullet’s effectiveness in real-world scenarios. The FTM design aims to create a larger wound cavity than traditional bullets, while the solid copper construction ensures reliable penetration through barriers. The weight and ballistic coefficient provide a balance between manageable recoil and effective energy transfer.
Performance & Functionality
The Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets excel in delivering consistent and reliable performance. Accuracy is excellent, with tight groupings achievable at typical self-defense distances. Reliability is outstanding, with no malfunctions encountered during extensive testing.
The bullets’ design effectively transfers energy, creating a significant wound cavity without relying on traditional expansion. However, it is important to note that some users might prefer the visual confirmation of expansion offered by hollow points. Overall, these bullets exceed expectations, delivering a unique and effective approach to terminal ballistics.
Design & Ergonomics
The solid copper construction inspires confidence, and the unique nose profile is visually striking. The bullets are well-machined and consistent in weight and dimensions. The FTM design, while unconventional, serves a clear purpose in enhancing fluid transfer and tissue disruption.
The bullets are user-friendly and load easily into magazines and firearms. There is no significant learning curve associated with using them.
Durability & Maintenance
The solid copper construction ensures exceptional durability, with no risk of fragmentation or jacket separation. The bullets are easy to maintain, as the copper material minimizes fouling. With proper storage, these bullets should last indefinitely.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets are primarily intended for use as reloading components. Therefore, they do not come with accessories. Reloading dies specifically designed for .452 diameter bullets are essential.
The bullets are compatible with standard .45 ACP magazines and firearms. While there are no specific customization options for the bullets themselves, handloaders can experiment with different powder charges and seating depths to optimize performance in their particular firearms. Be sure to use loading data from Lehigh Defense.
Pros and Cons of Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets
Pros
- Exceptional barrier penetration: The solid copper construction and FTM design allow these bullets to penetrate barriers like clothing and drywall without significant deformation or loss of effectiveness.
- Large wound cavity: The Fluid Transfer Monolithic design effectively transfers energy, creating a wound cavity comparable to or larger than traditional hollow points.
- Reliable performance: These bullets consistently cycle and perform well in various firearms, with no malfunctions encountered during testing.
- Lead-free construction: The solid copper material meets the criteria of states and jurisdictions with lead-free projectile requirements.
- Consistent accuracy: The bullets exhibit excellent accuracy, with tight groupings achievable at typical self-defense distances.
Cons
- Higher price point: These bullets are significantly more expensive than traditional FMJ or hollow point rounds.
- Lack of visual expansion: Some users may prefer the visual confirmation of expansion offered by hollow points, which these bullets do not provide.
Who Should Buy Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets?
- Perfect for: Individuals prioritizing barrier penetration and reliable terminal performance in self-defense scenarios.
- Perfect for: Law enforcement officers or private citizens who reside in areas with restrictions on lead ammunition.
- Perfect for: Handloaders looking for a high-quality, non-traditional bullet design for their .45 ACP firearms.
- Perfect for: Hunters using .45 ACP caliber carbines or handguns looking for lead free hunting options.
Who should skip this product? Individuals on a tight budget who do not require enhanced barrier penetration or lead-free ammunition. Those who prefer the visual confirmation of expansion provided by traditional hollow points might also consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality reloading dies designed for .452 diameter bullets are essential. A reliable chronograph is helpful for optimizing powder charges and achieving desired velocities.
Conclusion on Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets
The Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets offer a unique and effective approach to self-defense ammunition. Their solid copper construction, coupled with the innovative FTM design, delivers exceptional barrier penetration and a substantial wound cavity. While they are more expensive than traditional rounds, their performance justifies the price for those prioritizing reliability and terminal effectiveness.
I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone seeking a high-quality, lead-free option for self-defense or law enforcement use. The peace of mind knowing that these bullets will perform consistently, even after encountering barriers, is well worth the investment.
If you’re looking for a cutting-edge self-defense bullet that breaks the mold and delivers exceptional performance, give the Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .452 Diameter 220 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) Pistol Bullets a try. You won’t be disappointed.